It is with a very heavy heart that we report the passing of famed moto-journalist Kevin Ash, who died of injuries sustained in a motorcycle crash today. Riding north of Cape Town, South Africa, Kevin was taking part in the press launch of the 2013 BMW R1200GS adventure-touring motorcycle, with the launch now being cancelled after this tragic news.

A legend in the industry, Kevin’s work could be found in a countless number of publications, including MCN and the Daily Telegraph, not to mention his own blog Ash on Bikes. Known for his technical knowledge, clear writing, and honest reviews, Kevin’s work was seen by many in the industry as the gold standard of motorcycle reviews.

On a personal level, I am saddened that I never got to meet Kevin face-to-face at a launch or show (or listen to one of his stories over a pint), though he made it a point to contact me when I was first starting Asphalt & Rubber, which only speaks to his character and professionalism.

Trading friendly emails ever since, it was clear to me why the British journalist was so profoundly well-liked and highly regarded amongst his colleagues. Missing him now, we all can only feel the vacuum left behind by his absence.

From the out-pouring of articles already circulating about him in publications around the world, it is evident that Kevin will be openly mourned by our close-knit community, and we here at A&R can only find solace in the fact that Kevin died doing something that he loved with such intensity.

He is survived by his wife and three daughters. Our thoughts are with them, along with Kevin’s friends and extended family.

Said as much as I want to say about this elsewhere really. Truly sad news. Kev was an icon to those of us who work in the same area. Maybe not so much known in the US but this is a huge blow to motorsport journalism in Europe.

Not the best news to start the year off with. Lets hope things get better. RIP Kevin.

L2C

Horrible. Loved his reviews and his unique voice as a journalist.

My condolences to family and friends. Thank you for all that you given and shared, Kevin. Rest in peace.

MikeD

Yup, this blows. I was doing my daily morning snooping around on the web when i saw it on another site.
Sure enough i did a double take and said to myself: NAH, IT MUST be me being still sleep reading, this can’t be the same guy, he must be testing the new W/C GS having a good time and i’ll be waiting for his excellent report to coming in probably by the weekend (i’m a big time lurker on his website).

I really got a kick reading his reviews, very detailed, lots of technical details that he would break down to the point that any regular Joe or Jane would get it from the get-go, plenty of pics while being enjoyable to read at the same time…i’ll sure miss his style.